I Corinthians 10:1-13

 I Corinthians 10:1-13

This passage may be called an invitation to study the Old Testament. It might also be called a warning against idolatry. It could even be seen as a warning against apostasy. It is a continuation of the discussion that began in 8:1. The Corinthians were flippant about some of the issues related to idolatry. Paul warns them in the passage that this is deadly serious.

Perhaps the best allegory or metaphor for the Christian life was the Exodus of Israel from Egypt. In so many ways, what is described in the Exodus finds its parallel or fulfillment in our life as disciples. There is no time in this context, but a study of the parallels between the Exodus and our lives as disciples would be a very fruitful exercise. In verses 1-4, Paul identifies 5 evidences to indicate the select or reserved nature of Israel with the word “all.” These people had more than enough evidence of God’s working in their life and world and His goodness to them. In spite of all the evidence, they turned away. Falling away is not a matter of the evidence but of the will, a will that is being shaped by sin. 

 Paul points out that these people and their experiences are to be examples for us in the Christian age. Having been addressing the issue of idolatry and temple meat, Paul in verse 7 points out the downward progressive nature of idolatry. The people did not go from waiting on Moses to drunken orgy in one step. They made an idol, then had a feast, most likely with the meat sacrificed to that idol, then they got drunk, got up to celebrate the idol, and then ended up in an orgy. In verse 8, Paul addresses the unholy union with the Midianites. In verse 9 the NASB translates the behavior as “try the Lord.” Another way of putting it is “to pick a fight with God.” The enemy delights in our picking a fight with God. The powers of darkness will provide both the emotions and the excuses for such a fight. To ‘grumble’ is less about open defiance. It is to be constantly finding fault with God most often in or about the circumstances of life.

Paul concludes with three key thoughts. In our age, we have the advantages of the earlier examples. There is no place for arrogance; anyone is capable of falling into apostasy. When faced with the first and all subsequent steps toward apostasy, we are not overwhelmed but, in each moment, have an escape opportunity.

“Lord, help me to learn the lessons of the past. AMEN”